The human spirit is an amazing thing, and this past weekend was an incredible reminder for both my husband and myself. We have spent the last 6 months training for the 2011 Marine Corp Marathon in Washington, DC. The training has been arduous, painful and mentally taxing, but well worth the inconveniences. However, none of this would have ever been possible without the help and support of family, friends, and co-workers. It truly does take a village! The 6:00 am long runs, the after work runs, the massage appointments, the injuries, the doctor’s appointments, and the shuffling of children from one location to another, were all just pieces, and parts of an ultimate goal. A goal that simply would not have been achieved without the support of people we love. Thanks to you all, we love you!

Our marathon weekend started off full of surprises. Dear friends had organized a surprise family celebratory dinner on Friday night, complete with carbohydrates and good luck posters. We were definitley off to a good start, and receiving all the positive “juju” was an added benefit. We left bright and early on Saturday morning, ready for the culmination of our hard work to come to fruition. Sunday, when we awoke, and it was beautiful. In fact, it glorious and we were finally ready for our run. However, I soon came to realize, I was NOT ready for the massive emotion that was forthcoming.

Marine Corp Marathon Packet Pick-up

The magnificent show of “human spirit” was amazing. Random strangers on the sidelines, became instant friends. They came to cheer us on, pat our backs, slap our hands as we ran by, and tell us we were “awesome.” Their unconditional support helped us to cross the finish line. Posters, that read “We don’t know you, but you can do it!” helped to lift us up, posters that read “Chafe now, drink beer later,” made us laugh and momentarily forget the pain. Funny costumes helped to decrease the tension. We were surrounded by thousands of unknown well wishers, and it was unbelievable. At mile 18, my own staff, unbeknowing to me, had traveled to DC to come and support us in this endeavor. It brought tears joy to both my husband and myself.

A running Whoopi Cushion helped to break the tension!

"The Divas" come to DC!

The show of human spirit was continued with the young autistic runner, the blind runner, the double leg amputees, Marines in full uniform carrying backpacks and running in boots, the British Marines that traveled long distances to participate, the three military men training by carrying a third person from spot to spot, and all the various organizations that were represented. Ultimately everyone had their own personal reason for running, and their own goal to achieve.

Amputee participant.

The Brits came to join us!

Marines in full uniform, backpacks and boots.

Marines were everywhere, they graciously handed out water and snacks. They were our own personal cheerleaders, who yelled and encouraged at each mile marker…”Ooh rah!” As we crossed the finish line, they were there handing out warming blankets, and personally congratulating each person. They placed your finishers medal around your neck, and shook your hand. The finishers village was full of marines passing our water, gatorade, food and making sure we were all well taken of. They truly were the ultimate support force! Semper Fi!

Marines handing out water.

Stuart receiving his medal!

As I look at my pictures, and think back on my marathon experience, I become a bit teary. First, that my husband and I finished, what a great feeling, and incredible accomplishment (check that off the bucket list). Secondly, to be enveloped by such support and love from family, friends and random strangers is truly humbling. Lastly, to witness such strength in people is overwhelming. The human spirit is an amazing thing, and in the end, we did kick a little “assphalt.”

Neurosis is a class of functional mental disorders involving distress but neither delusions nor hallucinations, whereby behavior is not outside socially acceptable norms.[1] It is also known as psychoneurosis or neurotic disorder, and thus those suffering from it are said to be neurotic.

Everyone, or most everyone, I know has a “neurotic moment” or “personality glitch” from time to time, and just the other day, one of my receptionist, had a moment. First off, let me go ahead and say, I love her and she is wonderful, but, boy did she have a” moment.” She went through the entire kitchen, opened every cabinet, and left all the doors open. As I walked into the kitchen, she appeared to be in complete state of shear mania. Doors were opening and her hands were frantically moving. In the case, of my receptionist, open cabinet doors, are her neurosis, and that is our sign, that an immediate demise is forth coming. Ultimately, I surmised that she must be in need of some form of nutrition. Needless to say, the cupboards were bare, she was NOT happy, and frankly I was scared!

The cupboards were bare!

The interesting thing about people’s neurosis, it is often a direct gateway to their needs, or emotional state at that specific time. I have learned over the years that these “moments” need to be addressed, and if not, can truly be dangerous. So, in the case of my receptionist, an immediate run to the gas station for chocolate, bread, butter and a REAL Coke was a necessity. After consumption our office world was completely restored.

Let us know if you have any office “moments,” we would love to hear from you, and how they are handled!

You know you need to take care of your oral health for your teeth’s sake — but did you know it’s also for your heart, your brain — and your whole body?

Research shows that if you have an infection in your mouth, it can increase your risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even pregnancy complications. For years, healthcare professionals suspected there was a link between oral infections and some medical conditions, but they thought this was because bacteria from the mouth made its way to other parts of the body. But now studies are showing that the inflammation found in periodontal, or gum, disease may play a more specific role in causing or increasing the risk for certain conditions.

Heart disease:Researchers have found that long-term periodontitis, an infection of the gums, can lead to coronary heart disease or atherogenesis, a condition in which plaque forms in your arteries. In fact, people with gum disease are nearly twice at risk for heart disease.

Stroke: There is evidence that severe periodontitis is also a risk for developing atherosclerotic plaques, which can cause strokes and heart attacks.

Diabetes: Researchers have discovered that periodontal disease somehow affects the body’s metabolism and can contribute to the development of pre-diabetes, a condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal.

Pregnancy complications: Research by the American Academy of Periodontology has shown that periodontal disease can increase the risk of delivering a pre-term baby with a low birth weight. If you’re pregnant and have gum disease, be sure to seek regular dental care from a periodontist. Studies have found that periodontal therapy can reduce the risk of going into labor preterm or delivering a baby with a low birth weight. Pregnant women who are also diabetic are more prone to gum inflammation and more severe gum disease.

Kidney disease: Poor oral health also seems to be linked to chronic kidney disease, which affects blood pressure and bone health, and can lead to kidney failure and heart disease.

Mental health problems:It’s common knowledge that stress and anxiety can impact your health. But research has now shown a strong relationship between gum disease and many mental health problems, including stress, depression, distress, anxiety, and loneliness. All of these conditions can cause your body to produce more of the hormone cortisol which, in increased amounts, can aid in the progression of periodontal disease.

Researchers are continuing to find links between gum disease and other health conditions, such as obesity, Alzheimer’s disease, steroid abuse, menstrual problems, menopause, and osteoporosis, just to name a few. By taking good care of your teeth, getting regular dental checkups, and treating any dental problems that occur, you can keep your mouth healthy and also reduce your risk of developing a serious medical condition. If you already have one of these health problems, it’s vital that you take good care of your mouth to keep the condition from getting worse…….A healthy mouth, leads to a healthy body.